Commonly Used Terms in Employment
Canadian Labour Market
Refers to the supply and demand of jobs in Canada. One way of looking at it is to see the availability of jobs in specific fields.
Digital Literacy Skills
Your ability to safely use digital technologies like the internet and social media on different devices such as computers or cellphones to access and find information.
Networking
Speaking or connecting with other people to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts, usually used when wanting to promote business or when looking for a job.
Portal
A website or a webpage to access links or information.
References
People who know you well and can recommend you for a job.
Robotic Systems or ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
A computer tool to help employers search for the right candidate. Some companies use this to track specific words or abilities in the applicant’s resume that match the employer’s needs.
SIN or Social Insurance Number
It is a 9-digit number provided by Service Canada. It is unique to you, and you use it when you need to work or access benefits in Canada.
Skills
Your ability to do something well; this could be natural or trained. For example, you went to school to learn a skill.
Soft Skills
Personal skills that respond to how you connect with others are considered essential by employers. These skills are not always necessarily trained and are sometimes natural to you. Some examples include creativity, problem-solving skills, and time management.
Sector
Specific area of the employment or work industry. For example, you work as a nurse in the healthcare sector.
Survival Jobs
A job not related to your profession. For many newcomers, this is a job you may take to help pay the bills, especially if you want to develop your skills to pursue the job you want. Many newcomers start with having survival jobs.
Technical Skills
Sometimes called hard skills. These skills are the opposite of soft skills and relate to skills where you studied or attended training. These are technical skills or techniques that are present in every industry. Some examples include website design or data analysis.
Transferable Skills
These are skills you can use in any job. You can move your skills from one job to another. For example, if you were budgeting for your family, you can use those skills in budgeting, such as organizing for another job.
Workplace Placement/Internships
A period of work offered by organizations, most without pay and is often used to gain work experience or requirements for a qualification. You usually have to apply for a placement.
Volunteer
You freely offer your time and services. If you do not have work experience, volunteering is a great way to earn experience and connect with others. You can volunteer at libraries, clinics, or community organizations.
Workshops
They are also sometimes called information sessions. They are meetings or sessions where you would either meet in person or online to learn or participate in activities regarding particular subjects. Many settlement agencies run workshops that may be helpful to you.